News

Reports of the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following U.S. And Israeli airstrikes on Tehran sparked protests across the United States on Saturday. Demonstrators gathered outside the White House and in New York’s Times Square, voicing opposition to U.S. Military involvement in the region.

Escalating Tensions and Protests

Protesters expressed concerns over the legality and justification for the strikes. “It wasn’t sanctioned by Congress, so what Trump is doing is on his own terms, it’s making him a fascist and it’s making the country into a fascist state,” said Sue Johnson, a protester. Another protester stated that the president “bombed Iran for no specific reason.”

The protests mirrored a sense of unilateral action attributed to the Trump administration, with some drawing parallels to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Protests were organized by a coalition of leftwing groups, including the ANSWER Coalition, the National Iranian American Council, and the Democratic Socialists of America.

“Emergency protests” were planned for Saturday in cities including Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, and Los Angeles, with additional demonstrations scheduled for Sunday in Albany, New York, and Gainesville, Florida, among others. Organizers released a statement calling Trump’s actions “an act of war” and vowing to make their voices heard.

Constitutional Concerns and Differing Perspectives

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the strikes as “a catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression.” Willie Cotton, of Brooklyn, New York, expressed opposition to U.S. Bombing despite not believing a nuclear Iran would be in the U.S.’s interest. He stated, “The US doesn’t go in there to help them, nor to benefit the region, it’s going in there for it’s own interests and aims.”

Cotton acknowledged Trump’s claim that the strikes represented “probably be your only chance for generations” for Iranians to take power, but expressed skepticism, referencing a similar statement made regarding Venezuela and oil interests. He also noted that previous administrations, including those of Obama and Biden, had pursued sanctions that negatively impacted the Iranian people.

While opposing the U.S. Bombing, Cotton affirmed support for Israel’s right to defend itself following Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023, attributing the bombing campaigns against Israel to Iran.

Heightened Security and Continued Opposition

As protests unfolded, the FBI placed its counterterrorism and counterintelligence teams on elevated alert nationwide. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated she was coordinating with federal partners to monitor and address potential threats. Protesters, like Jacqueline of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, maintained that even without stopping the bombing, voicing opposition to another war in the Middle East was crucial.

Healthcare worker Christina Perez expressed frustration with what she described as “rampant tyranny” and a constant cycle of crises, arguing that resources are consistently diverted to war rather than addressing domestic issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the protests?

Reports that Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, had been killed in U.S. And Israeli airstrikes prompted anti-war protests across the United States.

Which groups organized the protests?

Scores of protests were sponsored by a coalition of leftwing groups, including the ANSWER Coalition, the National Iranian American Council, and the Democratic Socialists of America.

What concerns were raised by protesters?

Protesters expressed concerns about the legality of the strikes, the potential for escalation, and the Trump administration’s unilateral use of military force.

Given the widespread protests and legal challenges, what role might public opinion and Congressional action play in shaping the U.S. Response to this evolving situation?

Tucson, Arizona – The No. 2 Arizona Wildcats defeated the No. 14 Kansas Jayhawks 84-61 on Saturday, February 28, 2026, securing at least a share of the Big 12 regular-season title. Arizona used dominant runs in both halves – a 19-0 surge in the first and a 16-0 run in the second – to control the game.

Dominant Performance Seals Victory

Arizona’s victory was fueled by a strong offensive showing. Brayden Burries led the Wildcats with 20 points and 12 rebounds, although Koa Peat contributed 10 points, four assists, and three rebounds. Kansas attempted to rally in the second half, led by Darryn Peterson, who scored 22 points, but Arizona’s lead proved insurmountable.

Kansas saw contributions from Melvin Council Jr., who added 11 points. Still, the Jayhawks struggled with shooting accuracy, particularly in the first half, where they went 6-of-25 from the field. A flagrant-1 foul called on Kansas’ Jamari McDowell in the second half further hampered their comeback efforts.

What’s Next for the Wildcats?

Arizona has the opportunity to clinch the outright Big 12 championship with a win in their next game on Monday. If they succeed, they are on track to be the No. 1 seed in the Big 12 Tournament in Kansas City. If Arizona ties for the top spot, they will secure the No. 1 seed due to a head-to-head tiebreaker over Houston.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the Arizona vs. Kansas game?

The final score was Arizona 84, Kansas 61.

What does Arizona require to do to win the Big 12 title outright?

Arizona needs to win their next game on Monday to clinch the outright Big 12 title.

Who led Arizona in scoring?

Brayden Burries led Arizona with 20 points and 12 rebounds.

What factors do you suppose will be most crucial for Arizona as they head into the Big 12 Tournament?

Wilkes-Barre, PA – Beau Vardion led the Clarkson University Baseball team with five hits as the Golden Knights split their season-opening doubleheader against Muhlenberg College on Saturday, winning game one 7-3 and losing game two 11-1 at Bruggeworth Field.

Game One: Clarkson Secures Victory

Clarkson and Muhlenberg both began their seasons with 1-1 records. Pitcher Jacob Shirley allowed three base runners in the first three innings of the first game but pitched out of trouble with strikeouts or defensive plays, including a double play involving Aidan McGuire and Beau Vardion.

The Golden Knights took an early lead. Beau Vardion singled in the second inning and advanced on a hit by CJ Kanick. CJ Cartier then doubled, plating Vardion. In the third inning, James Mason walked and scored on a line drive by David Harris. Vardion followed with a double, driving in Harris to extend the lead to 3-0.

Muhlenberg narrowed the gap in the fourth inning with a two-run home run by Thomas Pranzo. The score was tied in the fifth on a triple by Thomas Rorick. Clarkson regained the lead in the seventh inning with a rally that included runs by Seth Albert and Vardion, extending their advantage to 6-3. They added another run in the eighth when Albert stole second and scored on a double by Mason.

Nathan Hartley and Ryan Petrie secured the win for Clarkson, pitching the final three innings without allowing any runs. Hartley pitched five innings of relief, allowing one run, whereas Petrie closed out the ninth.

Game Two: Muhlenberg Dominates

Both teams scored in the first inning of the second game. Seth Albert doubled and scored on a single by Joe Figliolino for Clarkson. Muhlenberg responded with a run of their own, tying the game 1-1.

Muhlenberg took control in the third and fourth innings, scoring multiple runs. A double by Mike Carcich in the third and a series of hits and wild pitches in the fourth extended their lead to 6-1. They continued to add to their lead in the fifth and eighth innings, ultimately winning 11-1.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the first game?

The final score of the first game was Clarkson 7, Muhlenberg 3.

Who earned the win for Clarkson in game one?

Nathan Hartley and Ryan Petrie combined to secure the win for Clarkson in game one, with Hartley pitching five innings of relief and Petrie closing out the ninth.

What was the final score of the second game?

The final score of the second game was Clarkson 1, Muhlenberg 11.

As Clarkson prepares to face Hamilton College and Oswego State next weekend, how will they leverage the lessons learned from this opening doubleheader to refine their strategy and build momentum for the remainder of the season?

The Green Party achieved a significant victory in the Gorton and Denton by-election on Thursday, marking the first time the party has won a British parliamentary by-election. Labour fell to third place in the contest, a seat it had previously held for nearly a century, with Reform UK coming in second.

A Blow to Labour Leadership

The result has prompted renewed scrutiny of the Labour Party’s decision to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing as a candidate in the by-election. According to Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, Burnham “probably would have” won the seat. Powell stated that the Greens may not have targeted the constituency so aggressively had Burnham been allowed to compete.

Powell, the sole member of Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to vote in favor of allowing Burnham to run, acknowledged “collective responsibility” for the decision, citing concerns about the potential need for a mayoral by-election in Greater Manchester. She also emphasized the need for the Labour Party to learn from Burnham’s popularity, stating that people “see in him someone who is on their side.”

What Next for Labour?

Burnham has yet to publicly comment on the by-election outcome. Labour leader Keir Starmer has vowed to continue fighting despite the “disappointing” result. Meanwhile, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to caution against a shift to the left in response to the by-election, as she prepares to introduce new immigration legislation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the outcome of the Gorton and Denton by-election?

Hannah Spencer of the Green Party won the by-election with 40.7% of the vote, defeating Labour and Reform UK candidates.

Why was Andy Burnham prevented from running in the by-election?

The Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) blocked Burnham from contesting the seat, citing concerns about the cost of a potential mayoral by-election in Greater Manchester.

What did Lucy Powell say about the result?

Lucy Powell stated that Andy Burnham “probably would have” won the by-election and that the Greens may have pursued the seat less aggressively had he been allowed to stand.

As the political landscape shifts, what impact will this by-election result have on the broader strategies of the major parties heading into future elections?

Sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and Israel on Saturday, February 28, 2026, signaling the beginning of a war with Iran – the second such conflict in eight months. As the alerts went out, residents sought safety in bomb shelters, transforming communal spaces into temporary homes.

An Improvised Community

Roberto Sciunnach was hauling his second mattress down the steps to a bomb shelter beneath Basel Square in north Tel Aviv when the sirens began. The shelter, initially nearly empty, quickly filled with adults, children, pets, and belongings as families prepared to settle in for the night. Those seeking refuge came from diverse backgrounds, bringing different foods and perspectives, but united by a shared hope for safety.

Sciunnach, a father of a two-year-old boy and a six-month-old baby girl, described the scene as a “pajama party,” aiming to normalize the experience for his son. He and his family had previously sheltered in their building during a war in June, but found the Basel Square shelter more secure and convenient, avoiding repeated trips up and down stairs.

Familiar Faces, Shared Experiences

For some, the shelter offered a sense of familiarity. Nelly and Elyane, both from Belgium, had met during the previous conflict in June and were reunited at the shelter. They noted that the experience was easier this time, as they were already accustomed to the routine and the weather was more temperate than in June.

Despite the anxiety and fatigue, a sense of camaraderie emerged. A young couple, Harel Stavi and their partner, who had recently moved in together, found themselves sharing a meal of jachnun – a traditional Yemeni Jewish pastry – with fellow shelter-dwellers after a delivery arrived during a siren. Others passed the time with games, conversation, and even a pop-up tent erected by one resourceful family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted people to seek shelter?

Sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and Israel, warning of incoming Iranian ballistic missiles and drones, prompting residents to seek safety in bomb shelters.

How did families attempt to cope with the situation?

Families brought games, mattresses, and food to the shelter, attempting to create a normal environment for their children and each other.

Did people know each other in the shelter?

Some shelter occupants, like Nelly and Elyane, had met during a previous conflict in June. Others, like Harel Stavi and their partner, were meeting their fellow shelter-dwellers for the first time.

As the evening progressed, the shelter emptied somewhat, but families remained prepared for a long night, with one parent even offering to run errands for their neighbors.

For the first time, private businesses in Cuba are importing fuel directly. At least two or three small and medium-sized enterprises (PYMES) have completed the process and, as of late February 2026, are fueling their fleets at CIMEX gas stations. However, this development does not resolve Cuba’s ongoing crisis.

The Monopoly is Broken

For decades, the Cuban government maintained absolute control over the import and distribution of fuel. That has changed. Several private companies have successfully imported diesel from abroad, primarily from the United States, and are now using it on the island. Cargo ships carrying fuel tanks have begun to arrive, according to members of the private sector.

While the process is legal, it remains uncertain due to a lack of clear regulation. Minister of Foreign Trade, Óscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga, announced on February 7th that financially capable companies would be authorized to purchase fuel abroad, but state control over the process remains intact.

How it Works

The complete cycle includes purchasing fuel abroad, filling isocontainers, maritime transport, port operations in Cuba, nationalization through CUPET, and delivery to the point of consumption. PYMES must manage purchases through state importers like QUIMIMPORT or MAPRINTER.

PYMES have two options for storing and consuming the fuel:

1. Assigned CIMEX gas station, where CUPET deposits the fuel for the company’s fleet.

2. Private storage point, requiring a certified project by CUPET, approval from Physical Planning, and certification from the Fire Department, with an operational timeline of 4 to 8 months.

The Costs Involved

The financial requirements are substantial. An isotank (capacity 23,000-24,000 liters) costs approximately $20,000 USD. Filling that isotank with diesel costs between $25,000 and $30,000 USD. Freight from the U.S. To a Cuban port is $5,000 USD. CUPET charges a fee of $0.12 USD per liter for nationalization and deposit at a station (approximately $2,880 per isotank). This brings the final cost to over $2.50 USD per liter.

The minimum estimated budget for a PYME is $60,000 USD. However, this does not include additional operational costs like insurance, documentation, export margins, port fees, and internal logistics within Cuba. Building a private storage facility could add up to $50,000 USD, plus the costs and delays associated with obtaining the necessary certifications from Cuban authorities.

Recent easing of restrictions by the Trump administration towards Cuba has facilitated operations from the U.S. And opened the door to imports from other sources. Experimental shipments from Europe have been reported, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has affirmed a willingness to provide fuel for humanitarian purposes through the private sector.

A Market is Emerging

Most Cuban PYMES lack the $60,000 USD needed to import fuel independently. According to an analysis by the Auge consultancy, 8,904 of the 9,236 registered PYMES—96.4%—are severely or critically impacted by the energy shortage. In the informal market, the price of a liter of fuel exceeds six dollars.

This situation will inevitably create a redistribution market, with those who can import selling to those who cannot. Some companies are already planning certified distribution networks to supply other PYMES across provinces. Demand is high, and fuel could become a more versatile currency than cash.

What This Doesn’t Solve

It is crucial to be clear: private fuel importation does not resolve Cuba’s crisis. It does not address the electricity shortages, with the current deficit reaching nearly 1,800 MW daily, and Havana experiencing up to 22 hours of blackouts in a single day. It will not provide medications for hospitals, repair schools, the water supply, or public transportation, nor will it fund any public services.

for decades, the Cuban government profited from reselling imported fuel at subsidized prices, primarily from Venezuela and Russia. This revenue stream is now diminished, as fuel imported by PYMES is for their own use or redistribution to private individuals.

Cuba’s energy, health, and basic services crisis remains. This is a step forward for the private sector, not for the country as a whole.

What This Does Mean

Despite its limitations, private fuel importation marks an important precedent. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero has acknowledged the role of PYMES, stating that they are contributing to the vitality of important centers.

• It represents the end of the state monopoly on a strategic resource.
• It is a further step towards the economic independence of the Cuban private sector.
• It opens recent business opportunities in a country where almost everything was previously state-controlled.

The future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: Cuban PYMES are now importing their own fuel, accomplishing what the government could not or would not.

Frequently Asked Questions

What has changed regarding fuel in Cuba?

Private businesses, or PYMES, have begun importing fuel directly into Cuba, a process previously controlled exclusively by the government.

How much does it cost a PYME to import fuel?

The minimum estimated budget for a PYME to import fuel is $60,000 USD, but this can rise to $150,000 USD or more if the PYME chooses to establish its own private storage facility.

Will this solve Cuba’s economic crisis?

No, the import of fuel by private businesses will not resolve Cuba’s broader economic crisis, including electricity shortages and a lack of access to essential services.

As Cuba’s private sector takes on this new responsibility, what impact will it have on the country’s economic future?

After a mild Saturday with temperatures reaching the 40s and 50s, a shift in the weather pattern is expected for Sunday. Temperatures will dip below freezing overnight, falling into the teens and 20s in suburban areas. A cold front approaching from the northwest will bring a mix of wintry precipitation and snow showers.

Hour-by-hour timing:

Initially, areas in Boston and along the Cape may experience a wintry mix as temperatures approach freezing mid-morning. Snow showers are expected to begin in the Berkshires and Worcester Hills by sunrise and continue through midday. By afternoon, the mix will transition to light snow for Boston and the Cape as colder air returns. The highest snow rates are anticipated across interior Connecticut and potentially central Massachusetts, reaching up to half an inch per hour.

The snow is expected to move out by early evening Sunday, though some flurries may remain. A brief return of Arctic air is forecast for Monday, with highs in the 20s.

Snowfall totals map:

Looking ahead, the cold snap on Monday is not expected to last long. The jet stream is forecast to shift, allowing milder air to return next week. Several weak weather systems are too anticipated, with snow to rain showers on Tuesday and another wave of precipitation on Wednesday and Thursday. Highs are expected to climb into the 40s and 50s by the complete of the 10-day forecast period.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperatures are expected on Saturday?

Temperatures on Saturday are expected to reach the 40s and around 50 degrees with plenty of sunshine.

When will the snow begin on Sunday?

Snow showers are expected to begin in the Berkshires and Worcester Hills by sunrise on Sunday, and will spread to other areas throughout the day.

What are the expected high temperatures for Monday?

Highs on Monday are expected to be in the 20s.